Startup 101: Student Life to Entrepreneurial Success

How can students move from academic life to starting their own business? Explore how to support students in recognizing business opportunities, developing key skills, leveraging networks and mentorship, securing funding, and balancing student duties with entrepreneurial pursuits.

Jun 4, 2026 — 10:20 am - 10:35 AM
Arena Stage

Speakers

Suggested sessions

Arena Stage
Jun 3, 2026
10:00 AM10:30 AM

Beyond the Hype: Why Science Is the Smarter Bet for AI

Dorothy ChouGoogle DeepMind
Description
AI is revolutionising industries, so why are we still investing in the obvious, while its most transformative potential remains untapped? In this fireside chat, Dorothy Chou, Director of the Public Engagement Lab at Google DeepMind and Angel Investor with Ada Ventures, explores how science powered by AI can deliver real societal and economic returns. Drawing on her work at the intersection of science, policy, and impact, she’ll unpack what’s missing from today’s capital flows, why foundational science remains undercapitalised despite its vast potential, and how Europe is uniquely positioned to lead this shift. With advantages in talent affordability, policy momentum, and a growing appetite for long-term vision, the continent has an opportunity to set a new direction. For investors and governments alike, this session is a call to look beyond the hype and back what will truly move society forward.
Arena Stage
Jun 3, 2026
10:30 AM10:50 AM

AI-Powered Robotics: From Single-Task to General Intelligence

Dennis HongUCLA
Description
AI is revolutionizing robotics, enabling machines to move beyond single-purpose functions toward general-purpose intelligence. This session explores how generative AI enhances robotic capabilities, allowing them to adapt to dynamic environments and perform complex tasks. Through real-world examples like the bipedal robots BALLU and ARTEMIS, we’ll examine different AI-driven control strategies and the critical role of problem-solving in robotics innovation.
Arena Stage
Jun 3, 2026
10:50 AM11:20 AM

Navigating the Future: Innovating for a Connected and Sustainable World

Victor ZambranaMutua Madrileña
Description
Mobility is rapidly evolving, reshaping how we live and connect. Visionary leaders aren't just responding to disruption; they're proactively creating the future of transportation and urban life. Join this insightful conversation to discover how innovation, sustainability, and technology intersect to transform cities and build smarter, greener communities.